High tuberculosis exposure among neonates in a high tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus burden setting
Date
2012
Authors
Bekker A.
Du Preez K.
Schaaf H.S.
Cotton M.F.
Hesseling A.C.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Maternal and neonatal tuberculosis (TB) are under-recognised, particularly in settings with a high burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective audit of neonates routinely screened for TB in a South African hospital during 2009. Surveillance sources reviewed included routine clinical, laboratory and pharmacy records. RESULTS: Among 70 neonates (60% HIV-exposed) screened for TB, the median gestational age was 35.5 weeks (IQR 33-38), and the median birth weight was 2000 g (IQR 1530-2484). The neonates were grouped according to a history of documented TB exposure: maternal TB in 41/70 (59%), suspected maternal TB in 9/70 (13%), other documented household TB exposure in 5/70 (7%), and no known TB exposure 15/70 (21%). Of the 50 neonates exposed to confirmed or suspected maternal TB, 36 (72%) were initiated on TB chemoprophylaxis, 5 (10%) received TB treatment and 9 (18%) received no intervention. Eight (8/50, 16%) were diagnosed with TB, all of whom were born to mothers with suspected or proven TB. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal TB, primarily among HIV-infected women, was the main indication for TB screening of neonates. Routine TB screening of pregnant women and TB care in mothers and infants should be improved in settings with a high burden of TB and HIV. © 2012 The Union.
Description
Article
Keywords
IPT, Low birth weight, Newborns, Outcome, TB treatment
Citation
International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease
16
8
1040
1046
16
8
1040
1046